1959 Jaguar XK vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 316 more horse power than 1959 Jaguar XK. (220 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Jaguar XK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 800 kg more than 1959 Jaguar XK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 474 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Jaguar XK. (325 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Jaguar XK. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1959 Jaguar XK has manual transmission. 1959 Jaguar XK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Jaguar XK | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XK | S |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3781 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 3165 mm |
